Next week our ladies at Mind Crafts will be meeting Odette owned by Alison Henderson and her daughter.
The therapeutic benefits of horses are well known, with equine therapy being used to tackle a wide number of emotional and psychological issues. But just what is it about spending time with our pony pals that brings us inner peace? Here are a few ways that working with and caring for horses can improve our overall mental health and well-being.
Relying On Us Animals rely on us for so many things including food, shelter and care, and horses are no exception. By working with horses, we learn what is involved in their care and their daily needs. As we understand how horses depend on us, we can learn how to be reliable and gain a sense of perspective and focus, which can help us to better understand our own thoughts and feelings. Getting Us Fit The links between physical activity and good mental health are well established, and horse riding is an ideal way to take care of our physical and emotional well-being at the same time. As well as working core muscle groups, riding strengthens limbs and helps with posture and balance, all of which help to keep our bodies healthy and fit. And let’s not forget how mucking out keeps us active! Making Us Happy Human interaction with animals is widely understood to be a natural mood enhancer. Several studies have shown that spending time with animals can reduce problems such as depression, stress and anxiety, and increase positive thinking and happiness levels. As a herd animal, horses in particular are attuned to the feelings of others and are an ideal calming influence.
By Stepney Bank Stables
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